Paeʻaina Challenge

The Pae ʻĀina Challenge marks the return of multi-stage iron racing to Hawaiʻi for the first time since the legendary Olamau in 2013. Built to test the endurance, strategy, and grit of every crew, this two-day challenge will span 42 miles along Oʻahu’s east and south shores.
One entry. Two races. Zero es**rt boats needed.

Do you have what it takes?

The 2026 OHCRA Scholarship Program is officially open. We are awarding over $20,000 to our student-athletes to support their journey from the shoreline to the classroom.

The Lineup:
• 3 First-Place Awards: $3,000 each for Undergraduate, Graduate, and Trade School applicants.
• 11 Additional Awards: $1,000 each for selected recipients.

Important Dates:
• 6/1: Online Applications due at OHCRA.com.
• 7/12: Scholarship Essay due.
• 7/19: Final deadline to complete your 2-regatta volunteer service.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to fuel your future. Head to our website to apply now! 🌊✨

Spots are filling up fast — register soon to secure your spot on the starting line! 🌊🛶 Don’t miss out: test your depth, get channel-ready, and join the lineup. Sign up now (link in bio).

REGISTRATION IS OPEN

The inaugural Pae ʻĀina Challenge
July 25–26, 2026

2 Days.
42 Miles.
Cumulative time.

From Waimānalo to Keʻehi, crews will be tested in endurance, discipline, and trust.

This is distance racing at a higher standard.

Claim your place on the start line.

Register now. Head to https://registration.ohcra.com/

For years, crews have asked for more—more miles, more pressure, and more opportunity.

The Pae ʻĀina Challenge was built to answer that call.

With prizes across all Unlimited Divisions, the event offers crews the chance to compete for:

• Molokaʻi Hoe & Na Wahine O Ke Kai Entry Fee’s
• Molokaʻi Flights
• Team Paddle Sets
• Cash Prizes and more

This is where Unlimited crews line up and prove it.

Registration for the Pae ʻĀina Challenge opens March 1. 🌊

We’re officially opening entries for this year’s race, with a cap of 80 crews total.

Entry fee: $1,200 per crew
• $250 non-refundable deposit due at registration (March 1)
• Remaining balance due by June 1
• No refunds aftery July 1

Spots are limited and expected to fill fast. Once we hit 80 crews, registration closes.

No es**rt boats are needed
Auxiliary boats are allowed

📸

Introducing the Pae’āina Challenge

OHCRA is proud to announce its first ever day iron paddling race. A brand new endurance showdown built for crews who thrive on getting in the miles,  building teamwork and embracing the grind.

July 25 & 26
Two Days, Pure Iron.

Every second counts. Cumulative time over both days will determine the order of finish.

80 crew cap, spots are limited don’t wait.

This race is about more than speed, it’s about strategy,  stamina, and representing your crew on the road to Molokai.

If you have been looking for your next big test, this is it!

Tag your crew.
Circle the dates.
 Training starts now!




Save the Date for The Pae’āina Challenge

Hosted by OHCRA – this is one you won’t want to miss!

2 Days of Ironman Racing - July 25 & 26
Waimanalo to Keehi Lagoon

Mark your calendars and start training… Details coming soon!

Go get um Kanaka

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the Pae‘aina Challenge previously set for October 1st and 2nd. We look forward to hosting this momentous occasion in 2023 to honor the legacy of hoe wa‘a in Hawai‘i and celebrate 70 years since the original Moloka‘i Hoe.
In lieu of this event, we will be honoring the memory of Uncle Gilbert Silva by hosting a memorial race on Sunday, October 2